Inspection of new Yuluma Primary School, North Innaloo (A/Min)

26/2/97

Works Minister and Acting Education Minister Mike Board today inspected one of the State's newly opened schools, the $3.8 million Yuluma Primary School at North Innaloo.

Mr Board said the new school was another example of the State Government's commitment to providing first-class educational facilities for the community.

The school, designed by Christou and Vuko Architects and built by Universal Construction Pty Ltd, was completed under contracts managed by the Department of Contract and Management Services.

It comprises 12 classrooms, a double pre-primary centre, library, education support and music and art rooms, covered assembly area, canteen, administrative area, an oval and four hard courts.

The school is completely networked with mini-computer labs in each teaching block and computers can be hooked up in classrooms.

A range of additional activities is also provided for students, including a permaculture compound where 1,000 to 2,000 trees will be grown annually and replanted in salt-affected areas.

The school operates a community recycling centre for items like cans, bottles and batteries and any money generated is spent on further student activities.

A large area of native bush to the east side of the school has also been proudly preserved for students to use. The area was planted with native bush by the original school students.

The old school on the site was demolished last year.

Mr Board said managing the design and construction contract for Yaluma Primary School was just one of many roles for Department of Contract and Management Services (CAMS).

"CAMS negotiate and oversee contracts which provide everything from computer software, to vehicle fleets, to buildings," he said.

"Each year, the Western Australian Government spends about $6 billion providing goods, services and infrastructure.

"When spending taxpayers' money, the Government is determined to provide quality, value-for-money services to the public.

"Yaluma Primary School is just another example of the Government providing a quality facility for the community."

Media contact: Peter Harris 222 9211